Panhandle people have big hearts. Raised in a land where, less than 100 years ago, hospitality could mean the difference between life and death (perhaps, you will get to see a February blizzard), we warmly embrace all visitors.

These are people who are stubbornly idealistic about their convictions, the kind of people who will vote to balance a national budget even when it means loss of programs that benefit us.

Raised in a land that can turn harsh, we like to turn negatives into positives, such as harnessing our strong Panhandle winds to provide water and energy.

Welcome to the Texas Panhandle, Oprah. More importantly, welcome to Panhandle people. I'm not sure how the national media is going to portray us to you, so, as one whose ancestors helped settle the region, let me give you one insider's view.

There is a sign you may see in the area that says when God got around to creating these parts, he ran out of assorted landscapes so he populated the region with assorted people. Though some of us would dispute the first claim (You must visit colorful Palo Duro Canyon), we won't argue about the second. We are not a monolithic people and we resent being stereotyped. You won't find out what we're like by listening to one source, local or national. You'll have to get to know us one by one.

Although we're big in diversity, we do share similar attitudes. Panhandle people have big hearts. Raised in a land where, less than 100 years ago, hospitality could mean the difference between life and death (perhaps, you will get to see a February blizzard), we warmly embrace all visitors.

This is why there was such a popular backlash when one of our leaders suggested a less-than-enthusiastic welcome for you. That's just not the Panhandle way. We lavish gifts and greetings on all newcomers, celebrity or unknown, powerful or weak (in fact, we are especially partial to underdogs). Also, we admire this in you. Regardless of our views about the legal matters that bring you here, we have seen your genuine compassion for those in need, and we find in you a kindred spirit.

And you can tell your lawyers not to worry; a jury of Panhandle people will not be prejudiced because of the money the cattle industry brings to the area. These are people who are stubbornly idealistic about their convictions, the kind of people who will vote to balance a national budget even when it means loss of programs that benefit us.

In fact, we are more likely to be swayed by the very opposite. Ruggedly individualistic, we resent anyone, big business or powerful media, who tell us how we're supposed to think. We are simple people; we are not simplistic. As one with strong family ties to the cattle industry, let me assure you a Panhandle jury will look at all sides of the issue.

Finally, if I sound proud in this column, I am, but our pride in this region goes deeper than personal egos. Panhandle folks have big dreams. We are a "can-do" people. Raised in a land that can turn harsh, we like to turn negatives into positives, such as harnessing our strong Panhandle winds to provide water and energy. And, despite the problems of the moment, we believe in the future, that farms can recover from years of draught, that small towns can rebuild after tornadoes, and that complicated issues, such as the conflict between free speech and the protection of agriculture, can be worked out with justice, compassion, and fairness for all.

Welcome to the Panhandle, Oprah.